A new One Stop Shop for young people aged 11-25 opened its doors for the first time yesterday (Monday) on Ballymena’s Wellington Street.

A new service by NI-wide charity Start360, N-GAGE provides a drop-in social and recreational space for young people to meet, share, chill and get involved in activities.

The new service is funded by the Public Health Agency and will provide an outreach service across the northern parts of the Northern Health and Social Care Trust area.

Ballymena Mayor Audrey Wales MBE, who was at yesterday’s launch at 2-6 Wellington Street, described E-GAGE as “a great initiative to help young people”.

She said: “The centre will offer advice and support in a relaxed environment promoting positive health and lifestyle choices. I encourage everyone to avail of the fantastic services available at N-GAGE and wish the staff and team every success”.

Anne-Marie McClure, Chief Executive of Start360: said: “This initiative is all about young people getting the support they require.

“It is about access, signposting, making use of all the resources available, participation and active involvement. Young people are key to the continued success of N-GAGE,” she said.